Safe Way to Clean Apples Before Eating Them

By Julie Christensen

Conventionally grown apples rank at the top of the list for the produce most polluted by pesticides, according to a 2014 list from the Environmental Working Group. Pesticides potentially lead to brain and nerve damage, and young children and pregnant women are most at risk. Conventional apples are also usually dipped in wax to maintain freshness. Peeling apples is one way to reduce your exposure to pesticides and waxes, but apple peels contain many nutrients. Instead, mix your own fruit and vegetable wash at home to safely remove pesticides and wax residues from apples.

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Rinsing with water may not remove all residues from an apple.

Step 1

Mix 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon of baking soda and the juice of half a lemon in a pitcher. Once the foaming has subsided, pour the solution into a clean spray bottle.